Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has defended his decision to leave strikers Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa out of the starting line-up during their impressive 2-0 MTN8 quarter-final victory over Polokwane City on Saturday, insisting both players remain crucial to the team's success.
Speaking to the media during the Betway Premiership launch in Sandton, the former Marumo Gallants mentor emphasized the importance of squad depth and rotation as Bucs prepare for a demanding season across multiple competitions.
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“No, Makgopa and Mabasa are very important players for me. I know them from before. You have to understand that this season we have a big squad. It will be very important to play with freshness because Orlando Pirates will play in many competitions. So, like I said, we win games with a starting XI, but we win competitions with a group. So, these players that you mentioned played a game in the morning, so everyone’s contribution will be important this season," Ouaddou told journalists.
The Moroccan-born tactician also revealed his philosophy on squad management, highlighting the importance of maintaining team harmony through genuine care for all players.
“First of all, I want to say give love to everybody. Bring the human being on the table. It is very important to put trust on the table and not playing a role as a coach. I think the dynamic, the size of the club and the number of competitions the club has played and the sincerity, honesty, the love that the coach is giving to the players can help you to have this way to keep everybody happy," the coach observed.
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Pirates starts the 2025/26 season with a home game against Sekhukhune United on Saturday at Orlando Stadium.
“First of all, I want to say give love to everybody. Bring the human being on the table. It is very important to put trust on the table and not playing a role as a coach. I think the dynamic, the size of the club and the number of competitions the club has played and the sincerity, honesty, the love that the coach is giving to the players can help you to have this way to keep everybody happy," Ouaddou observed.
Pirates will begin their 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign with a home fixture against Sekhukhune United on Saturday at Orlando Stadium.
